History of Dr. Dre in Timeline
Dr. Dre, born Andre Romell Young, is a prominent figure in American hip hop. He rose to fame with N.W.A, a group known for their explicit lyrics reflecting street life. Dre played a pivotal role in popularizing West Coast G-funk, a hip hop subgenre characterized by its synthesizer-heavy sound. Beyond music, he's a successful entrepreneur, founding Aftermath Entertainment and Beats Electronics, and co-founding Death Row Records.
1964: Marriage of Dr. Dre's Parents
Dr. Dre's parents, Theodore and Verna Young, married in 1964.
February 18, 1965: Birth of Andre Romell Young (Dr. Dre)
Andre Romell Young, who would become known as Dr. Dre, was born in Compton, California on February 18, 1965.
1967: David McCallum's "The Edge"
Jazz-funk artist David McCallum released "The Edge" in 1967. The song was later sampled by Dr. Dre for "The Next Episode" in 2001.
1968: Separation of Dr. Dre's Parents
Dr. Dre's parents separated in 1968.
1972: Divorce of Dr. Dre's Parents
Dr. Dre's parents divorced in 1972.
1972: Sampling Leon Haywood's "I Wanna Do Somethin' Freaky to You"
In 1972, Leon Haywood released the song "I Wanna Do Somethin' Freaky to You," which Dr. Dre later sampled for his hit single "Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang."
1976: Dr. Dre's Education
Dr. Dre began attending Vanguard Junior High School in Compton in 1976, but later transferred to Roosevelt Junior High School due to gang violence.
1979: Dr. Dre's High School Years
Dr. Dre attended Centennial High School in Compton during his freshman year in 1979 but later transferred to Fremont High School in South Central Los Angeles.
December 15, 1981: Birth of Curtis Young
On December 15, 1981, Dr. Dre, at 16 years old, became a father to Curtis Young with his then-girlfriend Cassandra Joy Greene. Curtis was raised by his mother and met his father two decades later. Curtis pursued a rap career under the name Hood Surgeon.
1983: Birth of La Tanya Danielle Young
In 1983, Dr. Dre and Lisa Johnson welcomed their daughter, La Tanya Danielle Young. In total, Dre and Johnson have three daughters together.
1985: World Class Wreckin' Cru's Debut Album
World Class Wreckin' Cru released their debut album under the Kru-Cut label in 1985.
1985: Dr. Dre Joins World Class Wreckin' Cru
In 1985, Dr. Dre joined the musical group World Class Wreckin' Cru.
1986: Formation of N.W.A
Dr. Dre met rapper O'Shea Jackson (Ice Cube) in 1986, and together they collaborated to record songs for Ruthless Records, eventually forming the group N.W.A with Eazy-E.
1987: Dr. Dre and Michel'le's Relationship Begins
Dr. Dre and singer Michel'le started their relationship in 1987. Michel'le was a frequent vocalist on Ruthless Records and Death Row Records albums.
1988: Production for Eazy-E and J.J. Fad
Dr. Dre produced Eazy-E's solo debut album, "Eazy-Duz-It", in 1988, as well as J.J. Fad's debut album, "Supersonic", in the same year.
1988: Birth of Andre Young Jr.
In 1988, Dr. Dre and Jenita Porter had a son named Andre Young Jr.
1989: Ice Cube Leaves N.W.A, Dr. Dre Produces for Other Artists
Following Ice Cube's departure from N.W.A in 1989 due to financial disputes, Dr. Dre produced and performed for much of the group's second album "Efil4zaggin". He also produced tracks for other artists on Ruthless Records.
1990: Alleged Assault of Tairrie B
Former labelmate Tairrie B alleged that Dr. Dre assaulted her at a party in 1990.
1990: Production for Above the Law
In 1990, Dr. Dre produced Above the Law's debut album, "Livin' Like Hustlers".
1990: Jenita Porter's Child Support Lawsuit
In 1990, Jenita Porter filed a lawsuit against Dr. Dre, seeking $5,000 per month in child support for their son, Andre Young Jr.
1990: Alleged Assault of Tairrie B
Tairrie B, a former labelmate, accused Dr. Dre of assaulting her at a Grammy party in 1990, allegedly in response to her track "Ruthless Bitch".
January 27, 1991: Assault of Dee Barnes
On January 27, 1991, Dr. Dre assaulted Dee Barnes at a Hollywood nightclub after an episode of her Fox television program "Pump it Up!" aired an interview with Ice Cube in which Cube mocked NWA. Barnes filed a lawsuit for $22.7 million.
May 1991: Brawl in New Orleans Hotel
In May 1991, Dr. Dre was involved in a brawl in the lobby of a New Orleans hotel that led to battery charges.
1991: Birth of Marcel Young
In 1991, Dr. Dre and Michel'le had a son named Marcel.
1991: Production for Jimmy Z
Dr. Dre produced funk rock musician Jimmy Z's album "Muzical Madness" in 1991.
1991: Departure From Ruthless and Formation of Death Row Records
Dr. Dre left Ruthless Records and established Death Row Records in 1991, assembling a team for his upcoming projects including DJ Chris "the Glove" Taylor, sound engineer Greg "Gregski" Royal, and Colin Wolfe.
1991: Departure from N.W.A and Formation of Death Row Records
In 1991, Dr. Dre left N.W.A following a dispute with Eazy-E. He was encouraged by his friend, D.O.C., and bodyguard Suge Knight. Knight, known for his forceful tactics, secured Dr. Dre's release from his contract and, with Dre as the centerpiece, established Death Row Records.
April 1992: Dr. Dre Shot Four Times
In April 1992, following a disagreement with his engineer, Dr. Dre was shot four times in the leg.
June 28, 1992: Fire at Calabasas Mansion
On June 28, 1992, a fire caused by a barbecue grill damaged Dr. Dre's Calabasas mansion, resulting in over $125,000 in damages. Two firefighters were treated for minor injuries.
October 1992: Battery of a Police Officer
Dr. Dre pleaded guilty to battery of a police officer in October 1992 and was convicted on two additional battery counts related to a brawl in New Orleans in May 1991.
1992: Debut Solo Single "Deep Cover"
Dr. Dre released his first solo single, "Deep Cover", in 1992. It was a collaboration with Snoop Dogg, whom he had met through Warren G. This marked the beginning of his successful solo career.
1992: Release of The Chronic and Its Impact
Dr. Dre's album "The Chronic" was released in 1992 and is considered one of the most influential hip-hop albums ever produced. It featured heavy synthesizer use by Colin Wolfe, prominent bass lines, backup vocals, and samples from 1970s funk music.
1992: Release of "The Chronic"
Dr. Dre's solo debut studio album, "The Chronic", was released in 1992, marking the first major project for Death Row Records.
1993: Dr. Dre's Success with "The Chronic"
"The Chronic" propelled Dr. Dre to become one of the best-selling American music artists of 1993, earning him a Grammy Award and other accolades.
1993: Battery Conviction
Dr. Dre was convicted of battery in 1993 following an altercation with a man outside his Woodland Hills home. The man claimed Dre broke his jaw.
1993: Success of "The Chronic" and Industry Recognition
In 1993, Dr. Dre's debut solo album "The Chronic" achieved triple-platinum certification by the RIAA, solidifying its cultural impact. The album's G-funk sound became highly influential in hip hop. Dr. Dre also won a Grammy Award for "Let Me Ride". Billboard ranked him as the eighth best-selling artist, "The Chronic" as the sixth best-selling album, and "Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang" as the eleventh best-selling single.
January 10, 1994: DUI and Arrest
On January 10, 1994, Dr. Dre was arrested for driving under the influence after a high-speed chase. His blood alcohol level was twice the legal limit, leading to a parole violation.
September 1994: Sentencing and Penalties
In September 1994, Dr. Dre was sentenced to eight months in prison for violating his parole. He also received a fine and mandatory attendance in an alcohol education program.
1994: Evolution of G-Funk and the "Murder was the Case" Soundtrack
In 1994, Dr. Dre began experimenting with a darker sound for G-funk, evident in his work on the "Murder was the Case" soundtrack. Tracks like "Murder was the Case" and "Natural Born Killaz" featured higher synthesizer pitches, slower tempos, and added percussion elements like sleigh bells to create a more intense atmosphere.
1994: Mentorship of Warren G
In 1994, Dr. Dre mentored his stepbrother, Warren G, which led to the multi-platinum debut album "Regulate... G Funk Era".
1994: Production Work for Film Soundtracks
In 1994, Dr. Dre contributed to the soundtracks of "Above the Rim" and "Murder Was the Case", showcasing his production skills beyond his own albums.
1994: Release of "Concrete Roots"
Dr. Dre's early recordings were released in 1994 on a compilation titled "Concrete Roots".
1995: Alleged Burning Man Encounter
According to an urban legend, Dr. Dre allegedly encountered the Burning Man festival in 1995.
1995: Mentorship of Daz Dillinger
Dr. Dre mentored Snoop Dogg's cousin, Daz Dillinger, which resulted in the double-platinum debut album "Dogg Food" by Tha Dogg Pound in 1995.
1995: Collaboration with Ice Cube and "Keep Their Heads Ringin'"
Dr. Dre reunited with his former N.W.A bandmate Ice Cube in 1995 for the track "Natural Born Killaz". He also recorded "Keep Their Heads Ringin'" for the film "Friday", which achieved significant chart success.
1995: Collaboration with 2Pac on "California Love"
In 1995, Death Row Records signed Tupac Shakur, leading to a notable collaboration with Dr. Dre on the highly successful single "California Love". This marked the first time both artists reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100.
1995: The Impact of "Doggystyle" and "The Chronic"
The musical influence of Dr. Dre's "The Chronic" and Snoop Dogg's "Doggystyle" in 1995 extended beyond the West Coast hip-hop scene and even impacted other genres. Artists like Master P, George Michael, Mariah Carey, Adina Howard, Luis Miguel, and The Spice Girls incorporated elements of G-funk instrumentation in their music.
March 1996: Departure from Death Row Records and Establishment of Aftermath Entertainment
In March 1996, Dr. Dre left Death Row Records due to conflicts with Suge Knight's management. He founded his own label, Aftermath Entertainment, under Interscope Records, marking a significant shift in his career.
May 25, 1996: Dr. Dre Marries Nicole Threatt
On May 25, 1996, Dr. Dre married Nicole Threatt, who was previously married to basketball player Sedale Threatt.
October 1996: "Been There, Done That" Performance on Saturday Night Live
Dr. Dre performed "Been There, Done That" on Saturday Night Live in October 1996, showcasing his transition away from gangsta rap to a wider audience.
November 26, 1996: Release of "Dr. Dre Presents the Aftermath"
On November 26, 1996, Dr. Dre released "Dr. Dre Presents the Aftermath", featuring his own songs and those by new Aftermath artists. It included "Been There, Done That", which was intended as a departure from gangsta rap. While achieving platinum certification, it wasn't widely popular.
1996: Dr. Dre and Michel'le's Relationship Ends
In 1996, Dr. Dre's relationship with Michel'le ended. They had been together for nearly a decade.
1996: Innovations in Production and the "Aftermath" Era
By 1996, Dr. Dre was seeking to evolve his sound once again. He brought in keyboardist Camara Kambon for "Been There, Done That" and connected with Melvin "Mel-Man" Bradford through Bud'da and Sam Sneed. He also transitioned from the E-mu SP-1200 to the Akai MPC3000, which he continues to use. This marked a shift towards less sample-based production, with a focus on prominent snare drums and a continued emphasis on synthesizers, as seen on his 1996 compilation "Dr. Dre Presents the Aftermath."
1996: Release of "First Round Knock Out" and Collaboration with New York Artists
In 1996, Dr. Dre released "First Round Knock Out", a compilation of his production work throughout his career. Notably, he chose to collaborate with New York artists, staying out of the East Coast-West Coast rivalry. These collaborations included work with Nas, LL Cool J, and Jay-Z.
1996: Collaboration on "No Diggity" and Legal Disputes
In 1996, Dr. Dre collaborated with Blackstreet on "No Diggity", which topped the Hot 100 for four weeks and won a Grammy. This success led to tension with his former Death Row colleagues who attempted to release a similar song but were stopped by legal action.
1996: Aftermath Entertainment and Collaboration with Mel-Man
Following the establishment of Aftermath Entertainment in 1996, Dr. Dre partnered with producer Mel-Man, leading to a more synthesizer-driven sound and a decreased use of vocal samples. While Mel-Man's co-production credits with Dre ceased around 2002, Aftermath producer Focus acknowledged Mel-Man's significant role in shaping the label's distinctive sound.
1996: Influence on Geto Boys and Horrorcore
Dr. Dre's production style in 1994 had a lasting impact, influencing artists beyond the West Coast. The Houston-based group Geto Boys' 1996 song "Still" used a drum pattern similar to "Natural Born Killaz," while Eazy-E's diss track to Dre, "Wut Would U Do," echoed the sound of the original "Murder was the Case" instrumental. This production style, combined with dark and horror-themed lyrics, became a foundation for the horrorcore subgenre.
1996: Dr. Dre's Film Debut in "Set It Off"
Dr. Dre made his first on-screen appearance in 1996, playing a weapons dealer in the bank robbery movie "Set It Off."
1996: Establishment of Aftermath Entertainment
In 1996, Dr. Dre left Death Row Records to establish his own record label, Aftermath Entertainment.
1997: Decline of Death Row Records
Death Row Records faced declining sales and legal issues in 1997, particularly following Tupac's death and Knight's racketeering charges. This contrasted with Dr. Dre's new path with Aftermath.
1997: Grammy Award for "No Diggity"
Dr. Dre's collaboration on "No Diggity" earned a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal by a Duo or Group in 1997, further solidifying his musical impact.
1997: Birth of Truice Young
In 1997, Dr. Dre and Nicole Threatt welcomed their son, Truice.
1997: Production Work on "The Firm's The Album" and Aftermath Challenges
In 1997, Dr. Dre produced several tracks on "The Firm's The Album", which received negative reviews. This, along with a trademark lawsuit, raised concerns about Aftermath's financial stability.
1998: Signing Eminem to Aftermath Entertainment
In 1998, Jimmy Iovine, co-founder of Interscope Records, suggested that Dr. Dre sign a young rapper named Eminem. This decision proved to be a pivotal turning point for Aftermath Entertainment.
May 1999: Death Row Records Releases "Suge Knight Represents: Chronic 2000"
In May 1999, Death Row Records released a compilation album titled "Suge Knight Represents: Chronic 2000," forcing Dr. Dre to change the planned title of his own upcoming album.
October 23, 1999: Performance of "Still D.R.E." and "Forgot About Dre" on Saturday Night Live
Dr. Dre performed his hit singles "Still D.R.E." and "Forgot About Dre" on Saturday Night Live on October 23, 1999, showcasing the success of his "2001" album.
November 16, 1999: Release of "2001"
On November 16, 1999, Dr. Dre released his second solo album, "2001", which was initially planned as "The Chronic 2000". The title was changed due to a Death Row release using that name. "2001" marked a return to his gangsta rap roots and featured collaborations with various artists.
1999: Release of "2001"
Dr. Dre released his second studio album, "2001", in 1999.
1999: Collaboration with Mike Elizondo
In 1999, Dr. Dre began collaborating with multi-instrumentalist Mike Elizondo, who played bass, guitar, and keyboards and had experience producing for artists like Poe, Fiona Apple, and Alanis Morissette. Elizondo became a frequent contributor to Dre's productions.
1999: Production on Eminem's "The Slim Shady LP"
Dr. Dre produced three songs and provided vocals for two on Eminem's debut album "The Slim Shady LP" in 1999. The album's success, reaching number two on the Billboard 200, marked a resurgence for Aftermath Entertainment.
2000: Tentative Titles for Dr. Dre's Second Solo Album
Dr. Dre considered several titles for his second solo album before settling on "2001." These included "The Chronic 2000," "The Chronic 2001," and simply "Dr. Dre."
2000: Grammy Award for Producer of the Year and Up in Smoke Tour
In 2000, Dr. Dre won the Grammy Award for Producer of the Year, Non-Classical, solidifying his impact on the music industry. He also participated in the Up in Smoke Tour with Eminem, Snoop Dogg, and Ice Cube.
2001: Lawsuits and Legal Disputes
In 2001, Dr. Dre faced multiple lawsuits, including from Lucasfilm Ltd. over the use of the THX "Deep Note" and The Fatback Band over alleged infringement in his song "Let's Get High".
2001: Aftermath Artists and Unreleased Albums
The year 2001 saw the release of "The Wash" soundtrack, featuring several Aftermath artists like Shaunta, Daks, Joe Beast, and Toi. Despite the initial signing, none of these artists released full-length albums on Aftermath, highlighting the challenges of meeting Dr. Dre's high standards.
2001: Ghostwriting in Dr. Dre's Music
The use of ghostwriting in Dr. Dre's work is explored in the book "How to Rap", where RBX reveals his contribution to "Let Me Ride" from "The Chronic" released in 2001. This practice extends to Dre's N.W.A days, with The D.O.C. writing lyrics while Dre focused on production. Even Jay-Z's ghostwriting for "Still D.R.E." from "2001" showcases the collaborative nature of Dre's creative process.
2001: Scott Storch's Contributions to "2001"
Scott Storch, who went on to become a successful producer, significantly contributed to Dr. Dre's second album, "2001", released in 2001. Storch's songwriting and keyboard skills are credited on several tracks.
2001: Dr. Dre's Production Techniques and Influences
In 2001, Dr. Dre revealed to Time magazine his preference for the Akai MPC3000 drum machine and sampler as his primary studio tool. He often used multiple units for a single recording. He cited 1970s funk artists like George Clinton, Isaac Hayes, and Curtis Mayfield as significant influences on his music. While many rap producers rely on samples, Dre favored having studio musicians recreate musical elements, giving him greater control over tempo and rhythm.
2001: Dr. Dre's Collaboration with Bilal
In 2001, Dr. Dre produced and rapped on singer Bilal's single "Fast Lane", which narrowly missed the Top 40 of the R&B charts. He later assisted in the production of Bilal's second album, Love for Sale, which was controversially shelved by Interscope due to its creative direction.
2001: Title of Dr. Dre's Second Solo Album
Dr. Dre's second solo album, released in 1999, was titled "2001," reflecting a return to his earlier style and a statement of his continued relevance in the hip-hop world.
2001: Dr. Dre's Financial Success
In 2001, Dr. Dre earned US$52 million from partially selling his Aftermath Entertainment stake to Interscope Records and producing hit songs like Mary J. Blige's "Family Affair," earning him the title of the second highest-paid artist by Rolling Stone.
2001: Work on Detox Begins
In 2001, Dr. Dre began working on his third studio album, initially called Detox. The album was described by producer Scott Storch as "the most advanced rap album ever".
2001: Dr. Dre Appears in "The Wash" and "Training Day"
In 2001, Dr. Dre appeared in two movies: "The Wash," a comedy also starring Snoop Dogg, and "Training Day," a crime thriller. He also contributed music to "The Wash" soundtrack, including his song "Bad Intentions" featuring Knoc-Turn'Al.
2001: Birth of Truly Young
In 2001, Dr. Dre and Nicole Threatt welcomed their daughter, Truly.
2001: Focus on Production Work, Including Eminem's "The Marshall Mathers LP"
Following the success of "2001", Dr. Dre turned his attention to producing for other artists. He co-produced six tracks on Eminem's "The Marshall Mathers LP", including the Grammy-winning "The Real Slim Shady". He also produced for Mary J. Blige, Eve and Gwen Stefani, and signed Truth Hurts to Aftermath.
2001: The Making of "2001" and its Impact
Dr. Dre's critically acclaimed second solo album, "2001," was released in 2001, incorporating live instrumentation in place of sampling. A prime example is "The Next Episode," where keyboardist Camara Kambon reinterpreted the melody from David McCallum's 1967 jazz-funk piece "The Edge." On "2001," Dre relied on a band of musicians to create the foundation of the beats while he programmed the drums, sequenced the music, added overdubs and sound effects, and mixed the tracks.
March 2002: Lawsuit by Jacques Loussier
In March 2002, French jazz musician Jacques Loussier filed a $10 million lawsuit against Aftermath Entertainment for alleged plagiarism of his composition "Pulsion" in the Eminem track "Kill You", produced by Dr. Dre.
2002: Shift in Production Collaboration
Around 2002, Mel-Man's direct collaboration with Dr. Dre on production lessened, although his influence on the Aftermath sound remained, as acknowledged by other producers at the label.
2002: Dr. Dre Appears in Coors Light Commercials
Dr. Dre appeared in television commercials for Coors Light beer in 2002 and 2003.
2002: Executive Producer for Eminem
In 2002, Dr. Dre served as the executive producer for Eminem's album The Eminem Show. He produced three songs on the album, including one that was released as a single, and appeared in the award-winning video for "Without Me".
2002: Signing 50 Cent
In 2002, Dr. Dre signed rapper 50 Cent to Aftermath in a joint venture with Interscope and Eminem's Shady Records.
2002: Copyright Lawsuit by Sa Re Ga Ma
In 2002, Sa Re Ga Ma, an Indian film and music company, sued Aftermath Entertainment over an uncredited sample in the Aftermath-produced song "Addictive".
February 2003: 50 Cent's Debut Album
In February 2003, Dr. Dre served as the executive producer for 50 Cent's debut album Get Rich or Die Tryin'. He produced or co-produced four tracks on the album, including the hit single "In da Club".
February 2003: Sa Re Ga Ma Copyright Lawsuit
In February 2003, a judge ruled that Aftermath Entertainment had to halt sales of Truth Hurts' album "Truthfully Speaking" for uncredited sampling unless Lata Mangeshkar was credited.
September 2003: Dispute Over Production Credits
In September 2003, several former associates of Dr. Dre voiced their complaints in The Source, claiming they didn't receive proper credit for their work on Aftermath projects. Producer Neff-U, notably, asserted his involvement in significant songs like "Say What You Say" and "My Dad's Gone Crazy" from "The Eminem Show."
2003: Settlement with The Fatback Band
Dr. Dre was ordered to pay $1.5 million to The Fatback Band in 2003 as settlement for a copyright infringement lawsuit.
2003: Dr. Dre Appears in Coors Light Commercials
Dr. Dre continued his appearances in television commercials for Coors Light beer in 2003.
2003: Production for The D.O.C.
In 2003, Dr. Dre produced The D.O.C.'s album Deuce, making guest appearances on the tracks "Psychic Pymp Hotline", "Gorilla Pympin'", and "Judgment Day".
April 2004: Influence on Notorious B.I.G.'s "Big Poppa"
In April 2004, XXL magazine published an article in which Bad Boy Records producer Chucky Thompson claimed that The Notorious B.I.G.'s 1995 hit "Big Poppa" drew inspiration from the sonic landscape of Dr. Dre's "The Chronic" and Snoop Dogg's "Doggystyle."
November 2004: Assault at Vibe Awards
Dr. Dre was attacked at the Vibe Awards in November 2004 by an individual who claimed to be seeking an autograph. The incident led to a scuffle involving G-Unit rapper Young Buck, who stabbed the attacker.
2004: Dr. Dre's Continued Earnings
In 2004, Dr. Dre earned $11.4 million, largely from production royalties for projects like G-Unit and D12 albums and Gwen Stefani and Eve's single "Rich Girl." He ranked 44th among earners that year.
2004: Focus on Music Theory and Collaboration Aspirations
In 2004, Dr. Dre revealed his pursuit of formal piano and music theory studies, aiming to score films in the future. He also shared an interest in working with renowned 1960s songwriter Burt Bacharach, mentioning he had sent him hip-hop beats and hoped for a future collaboration.
2004: Studio Equipment and Techniques
In 2004, Dr. Dre shared insights into his production methods, emphasizing the importance of precise drum equalization. He also revealed his use of the E-mu SP-1200 drum machine, various keyboards from brands like Korg, Rhodes, Wurlitzer, Moog, and Roland, and the digital audio workstation Pro Tools to blend hardware and vintage instruments.
2004: Collaborative Production of "The Real Slim Shady"
In 2004, Mike Elizondo, a frequent collaborator with Dr. Dre, described the creation of Eminem's "The Real Slim Shady." He explained that the song was a collaborative effort involving himself, Dr. Dre, and Tommy Coster Jr., showcasing Dre's collaborative approach to music production.
April 2005: Rolling Stone Ranking
In April 2005, Dr. Dre was ranked 54th on Rolling Stone magazine's list "The Immortals: The Greatest Artists of All Time". Kanye West wrote the summary for Dr. Dre, stating that Dre's song "Xxplosive" influenced his own sound.
September 2005: Attacker's Sentencing and Restraining Order
In September 2005, Jimmy James Johnson, the man who assaulted Dr. Dre at the Vibe Awards, was sentenced to a year in prison and was issued a restraining order barring him from approaching Dre until 2008.
2005: Detox Album Delay
In 2005, Dr. Dre decided to stop working on Detox to focus on producing for other artists, although he later changed his mind about the album.
November 2006: Work with Raekwon
In November 2006, Dr. Dre began working with Raekwon on his album Only Built 4 Cuban Linx II. He also produced tracks for various artists, including Young Buck, 50 Cent, Snoop Dogg, and Jay-Z.
2006: Dr. Dre Co-Founds Beats Electronics
Dr. Dre co-founded Beats Electronics with Jimmy Iovine in 2006, marking a significant move into the consumer electronics industry.
2006: Dr. Dre's Perfectionism
In 2006, Dr. Dre's perfectionism was highlighted when Snoop Dogg revealed that Dre made artist Bishop Lamont re-record a single bar of vocals 107 times. This dedication to flawless performances is a hallmark of Dre's production style, also evident in his collaborations with Eminem.
2006: Scott Storch's Reflection on Working with Dr. Dre
In 2006, Scott Storch spoke about his contributions to Dr. Dre's "2001" album in an interview with Rolling Stone, shedding light on their collaborative process.
February 2007: Dr. Dre to Produce Films for Crucial Films
In February 2007, Dr. Dre announced his foray into film production, partnering with video director Phillip Atwell to produce dark comedies and horror films for Crucial Films, a New Line Cinema company. Dre stated his intention to eventually move into directing, leveraging his experience directing music videos.
2007: Collaboration with Timbaland
In 2007, Dr. Dre appeared on Timbaland's track "Bounce" from his solo album Timbaland Presents Shock Value, alongside Missy Elliott and Justin Timberlake.
2007: Work on Detox
In 2007, Dr. Dre's third studio album, formerly known as Detox, was slated to be his final studio album. Work on the album dates back to 2001, and it was initially set for a fall 2005 release.
June 2008: Detox Album Update
In June 2008, Snoop Dogg claimed that Dr. Dre's highly anticipated album Detox was finished, according to a report by Rolling Stone magazine.
July 2008: Launch of Beats Electronics' First Headphones
In July 2008, Beats Electronics, co-founded by Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine, launched its first line of headphones, including the Beats Studio, Beats Tour, Beats Solo & Solo HD, Beats Spin, Heartbeats by Lady Gaga, and Diddy Beats.
August 23, 2008: Death of Andre Young Jr.
On August 23, 2008, Andre Young Jr., Dr. Dre's son, tragically passed away at the age of 20 from a heroin and morphine overdose at his mother's residence in Woodland Hills.
December 15, 2008: Remix Appearance
On December 15, 2008, Dr. Dre appeared in the remix of the song "Set It Off" by Canadian rapper Kardinal Offishall. The remix debuted on DJ Skee's radio show.
February 12, 2009: Chart-Topping Single
On February 12, 2009, Dr. Dre produced and made a guest vocal performance on Eminem's single "Crack a Bottle", which sold a record 418,000 downloads in its first week and topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
May 28, 2009: Detox Snippet Premiered
On May 28, 2009, Dr. Dre premiered the first official snippet of Detox in a Dr Pepper commercial.
October 9, 2009: Hewlett-Packard and Beats By Dr. Dre Partnership Announced
On October 9, 2009, Hewlett-Packard (HP) and Beats By Dr. Dre announced a partnership to bundle Beats headphones with select HP laptops and headsets. An exclusive HP ENVY 15 Beats limited edition laptop was released on October 22 as part of the collaboration.
2009: Dr. Dre in Beats Electronics and Dr Pepper Commercials
Starting in 2009, Dr. Dre appeared in television commercials promoting his Beats Electronics product line. Notably, a 2009 commercial for Dr Pepper soft drink featured Dre DJing with Beats headphones and playing a snippet from his then-unreleased album "Detox."
April 20, 2010: Under Pressure Confirmed
On April 20, 2010, "Under Pressure" featuring Jay-Z was confirmed by Jimmy Iovine and Dr. Dre as the album's first single.
June 16, 2010: Unmixed Version of Under Pressure Leaked
On June 16, 2010, an unmixed, unmastered version of "Under Pressure" without a chorus leaked online. The critical reaction was lukewarm, and Dr. Dre later announced that the song would not appear on the final version of Detox.
June 25, 2010: ASCAP Founders Award
On June 25, 2010, the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers honored Dr. Dre with its Founders Award for inspiring other musicians.
August 2010: Announcement of The Planets
In August 2010, Dr. Dre announced that an instrumental album titled The Planets was in its first stages of production, with each song named after a planet in the Solar System.
November 2010: Release of Kush
In November 2010, Dr. Dre released the single "Kush", featuring Snoop Dogg and Akon.
2010: Dr. Dre Cameo in HP Laptop Commercial
In 2010, Dr. Dre had a cameo appearance in a commercial for HP laptops, which included a promotional plug for Beats Audio.
2010: Detox Scheduled for 2010
In 2010, Detox was then scheduled for a release, following the release of 50 Cent's Before I Self Destruct and Eminem's Relapse, for which Dr. Dre handled most of the production duties.
February 2011: Success of I Need a Doctor
In February 2011, the single "I Need a Doctor", featuring Eminem and Skylar Grey, achieved international chart success, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and being certified double platinum by the RIAA and ARIA.
November 14, 2011: Break from Music
On November 14, 2011, Dr. Dre announced that he would take a break from music after producing for Slim the Mobster and Kendrick Lamar. During this break, he planned to focus on his Beats by Dre brand and spend time with his family.
2011: Dr. Dre Narrates Chrysler 300S Commercial
Dr. Dre lent his voice to a 2011 Chrysler 300S "Imported from Detroit" ad campaign commercial, which also featured a promotion for Beats Audio.
2011: Urban Legend of Dr. Dre's Involvement in Burning Man
In 2011, a rumor circulated online claiming that Dr. Dre was instrumental in getting Burning Man permitted in 1995 and suggested he tried to implement an entrance fee. This was based on a supposed letter from Dre to Nicole Threatt Young, sharing his experience of the festival.
January 9, 2012: Headline at Coachella
On January 9, 2012, Dr. Dre was announced as a headliner for the final nights of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April 2012.
April 2012: Performance at Coachella
In April 2012, Dr. Dre headlined the final nights of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival.
2012: Dr. Dre's Rising Net Worth
In 2012, Forbes estimated Dr. Dre's net worth at US$270 million and reported his earnings as US$110 million, making him the highest-paid artist of the year. This financial success came from his diverse ventures, showcasing his business acumen beyond music production.
May 2013: Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine Donate $70 Million to USC for Innovation Academy
In May 2013, Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine made a significant philanthropic contribution, donating $70 million to the University of Southern California (USC). This endowment funded the creation of the USC Jimmy Iovine and Andre Young Academy for Arts, Technology and the Business of Innovation, aiming to foster creativity and innovation in students.
January 2014: Launch of Beats Music Streaming Service
Beats Music, a streaming service developed by Beats Electronics, was introduced and launched in January 2014.
June 2014: Detox Title Change
In June 2014, Marsha Ambrosius revealed that she had been working on Detox, but the album would be known under another title.
September 2014: Confirmation of Title Change
In September 2014, Aftermath in-house producer Dawaun Parker confirmed the title change for Detox and stated that over 300 beats had been created for the album over the years.
September 2014: First Class of USC Jimmy Iovine and Andre Young Academy Begins
The first class of students commenced their studies at the USC Jimmy Iovine and Andre Young Academy for Arts, Technology and the Business of Innovation in September 2014.
2014: Dr. Dre's Brentwood Home Purchase
In 2014, Dr. Dre purchased a $40 million Brentwood home in Los Angeles from Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen, further showcasing his financial success.
2014: Sale of Beats to Apple
Dr. Dre sold Beats to Apple in 2014, leading to his biggest single-year payday ever recorded for a musician, as reported by Forbes. This business deal significantly contributed to his wealth and solidified his position as a business mogul.
2014: Sale of Beats Electronics to Apple
In 2014, Dr. Dre sold Beats Electronics to Apple, a transaction not included in the divorce proceedings.
March 2015: Domestic Violence Allegations by Michel'le
In March 2015, Michel'le, Dr. Dre's former partner, accused him of domestic violence during their relationship.
August 1, 2015: Dr. Dre Announces "Compton", His Final Album
On August 1, 2015, Dr. Dre announced the release of his final album, "Compton", inspired by the N.W.A biopic "Straight Outta Compton". The compilation-style album featured collaborations with Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, Xzibit, and The Game. "Compton" was initially released on Apple Music on August 7 and later in retail on August 21. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Dre revealed that he had scrapped a planned album titled "Detox" because it didn't meet his standards. He also opened up about his struggles with social anxiety, which contributed to his reclusiveness.
August 2015: Dr. Dre Addresses Past Abuse
In August 2015, during press for the film "Straight Outta Compton", Dr. Dre addressed his past abusive behavior in an interview with Rolling Stone, expressing regret for his actions.
August 2015: Dr. Dre's Public Apology
Two weeks after the release of his album "Compton" in August 2015, Dr. Dre issued a public apology to the women he had hurt in the past.
August 21, 2015: Public Apology for Past Abuse
On August 21, 2015, Dr. Dre issued a public apology to the women he had hurt in the past, acknowledging his mistakes and expressing regret for his actions.
October 30, 2015: Lawsuit over "Straight Outta Compton"
Former Ruthless Records co-founder, Jerry Heller, filed a lawsuit on October 30, 2015, against Dr. Dre and others involved in the film "Straight Outta Compton", alleging defamation and copyright infringement over his portrayal in the movie.
2015: Dr. Dre as the World's Richest Musical Performer
In 2015, fueled by the sale of Beats to Apple, Dr. Dre was named the world's richest musical performer by Forbes.
2015: Dr. Dre Co-Produces "Straight Outta Compton"
Alongside fellow N.W.A member Ice Cube, Dr. Dre co-produced the 2015 biographical film "Straight Outta Compton," which depicted the rise of their influential hip-hop group.
February 12, 2016: Dr. Dre to Executive Produce "Vital Signs" for Apple TV+
On February 12, 2016, Apple announced "Vital Signs", its first original scripted television series for Apple TV+, with Dr. Dre as executive producer. The show, set to reflect Dre's life, was later cancelled in September 2018 due to concerns over its graphic depiction of drugs, gun violence, and sex.
April 4, 2016: Suge Knight Accusations and Alleged Plot
On April 4, 2016, Suge Knight made allegations that Dr. Dre was involved in a conspiracy with the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department to have Knight killed, stemming from a shooting incident in 2014.
June 2016: Court Proceedings and Criticism of Lawsuit
In June 2016, the lawsuit filed by Jerry Heller against Dr. Dre went to court. The presiding judge criticized Heller's claims, stating that the film had the right to present events in a dramatic manner.
September 2, 2016: Jerry Heller's Passing and Continuation of Lawsuit
Jerry Heller passed away on September 2, 2016, due to a heart attack and a car accident. Despite his death, the lawsuit against Dr. Dre was pursued by his estate and legal team.
October 2016: Dr. Dre Joins Sean Combs' Bad Boy Reunion Tour
In October 2016, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, and other prominent figures in hip-hop joined Sean Combs' Bad Boy reunion tour.
2016: Anderson .Paak's Appreciation for Dr. Dre
In a 2016 Music Times interview, Anderson .Paak expressed his admiration for Dr. Dre, highlighting the significance of working with him as a dream come true. This emphasizes Dre's lasting influence and mentorship in the music industry.
2016: Release of "Surviving Compton: Dre, Suge & Michel'le"
Michel'le's biopic "Surviving Compton: Dre, Suge & Michel'le" was released in 2016. The film portrays the abusive relationship she had with Dr. Dre.
2016: Surviving Compton: Dre, Suge & Michel'le
Michel'le's biopic, "Surviving Compton: Dre, Suge & Michel'le", which depicted her abusive relationship with Dr. Dre, was released in 2016.
June 2017: Dr. Dre Pledges $10 Million for Compton High School Performing Arts Center
In June 2017, Dr. Dre demonstrated his commitment to his hometown by pledging $10 million to the construction of a performing arts center at the new Compton High School. The center, expected to break ground in 2020, will feature creative resources and a 1,200-seat theater.
2017: Dr. Dre Discusses Dee Barnes Incident
In the 2017 film "The Defiant Ones", Dr. Dre again discussed the Dee Barnes incident, acknowledging his wrongdoing, expressing regret and taking responsibility for his actions.
May 8, 2018: Trademark Dispute and Loss
Dr. Dre was unsuccessful in his attempt to trademark his name on May 8, 2018, losing the case to a gynecologist who had filed a similar petition using the nickname "Dr. Drai".
September 2018: Cancellation of "Vital Signs"
Dr. Dre's Apple TV+ series, "Vital Signs", was cancelled in September 2018 due to its graphic content related to drugs, gun violence, and sex.
October 2018: Dismissal of Lawsuit and Significant Costs for Heller's Estate
The lawsuit filed by Jerry Heller against Dr. Dre was ultimately dropped in October 2018, leading to substantial financial repercussions for Heller's estate, which had to pay millions in damages.
2018: Dr. Dre Executive Produces Anderson .Paak's "Oxnard"
In 2018, Dr. Dre served as the executive producer for Anderson .Paak's album, "Oxnard," producing four songs on the project.
2019: Dr. Dre Executive Produces Anderson .Paak's "Ventura"
Continuing his collaborative relationship with Anderson .Paak, Dr. Dre took on the role of executive producer for .Paak's 2019 album "Ventura."
January 2020: Alleged Cessation of Financial Support to Daughter
Dr. Dre allegedly stopped providing financial assistance to his daughter, LaTanya Young, in January 2020. This action reportedly followed LaTanya's public statements about her father.
June 2020: Nicole Plotzker-Young Files for Divorce
Dr. Dre's wife, Nicole Plotzker-Young, filed for divorce in June 2020, citing irreconcilable differences.
November 2020: Nicole Plotzker-Young Files Legal Claims
In November 2020, Nicole Plotzker-Young filed legal claims against Dr. Dre, alleging verbal abuse, infidelity, and destruction of their prenuptial agreement during their marriage.
2020: Dr. Dre Contributes to Eminem's "Music to Be Murdered By"
Dr. Dre served as executive producer on Eminem's 2020 album, "Music to Be Murdered By," producing four songs on the standard edition and two songs on the deluxe "Side B" edition. He also appeared on the track "Gunz Blazing."
2020: Groundbreaking for Compton High School Performing Arts Center
The groundbreaking for the Dr. Dre-funded performing arts center at Compton High School was expected to occur in 2020.
January 5, 2021: Dr. Dre Hospitalized for Brain Aneurysm
On January 5, 2021, Dr. Dre was hospitalized at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles for a brain aneurysm. During this time, an attempted burglary targeted his home. He received support from numerous celebrities, demonstrating his impactful presence in the entertainment industry.
July 2021: Court-Ordered Spousal Support
In July 2021, Dr. Dre was ordered by the Los Angeles Superior Court to pay $293,306 per month in spousal support to Nicole Plotzker-Young.
August 2021: Daughter's Homelessness and Alleged Financial Cut-Off
In August 2021, LaTanya Young, Dr. Dre's oldest daughter, revealed her struggles with homelessness and inability to support her children, alleging that Dre had ceased financial support in January 2020 due to her comments about him in the media.
September 30, 2021: Dr. Dre to Perform at Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show
On September 30, 2021, it was announced that Dr. Dre would be performing at the Super Bowl LVI halftime show alongside Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, and Kendrick Lamar.
December 2021: Divorce Proceedings in Final Stages
As of December 2021, the divorce proceedings between Dr. Dre and Nicole Plotzker-Young had entered their final stages, addressing financial assets including several properties.
December 2021: Dr. Dre Announces Collaborations with Marsha Ambrosius and Mary J. Blige
In December 2021, Dr. Dre announced upcoming collaborations with Marsha Ambrosius on an album titled "Casablanco" and with Mary J. Blige on a new album.
December 2021: Dr. Dre's Divorce Finalized
In December 2021, Dr. Dre finalized his divorce from Nicole Threatt, resulting in a reported settlement of $100 million from his estate.
February 3, 2022: Release of Dr. Dre's "The Contract" EP
On February 3, 2022, Dr. Dre released "The Contract" EP, featuring previously unreleased tracks, coinciding with an update for the video game "Grand Theft Auto Online" that prominently featured Dre.
February 13, 2022: Dr. Dre Performs at Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show, Wins Emmy Award
On February 13, 2022, Dr. Dre delivered a critically acclaimed performance at the Super Bowl LVI halftime show alongside Eminem, Snoop Dogg, Kendrick Lamar, and Mary J. Blige, with surprise appearances by 50 Cent and Anderson .Paak. The performance marked the first Super Bowl halftime show to win the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Special (Live). It also won Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Production Design for a Variety Special and Outstanding Music Direction.
September 2022: Dr. Dre to Compose Score for "Death for Hire: The Origin of Tehk City"
In September 2022, it was announced that Dr. Dre would be composing the original score for the animated series "Death for Hire: The Origin of Tehk City." The show, created by Ice-T and Arabian Prince and based on the graphic novel of the same name, features voice talents including Ice-T, Coco Austin, Snoop Dogg, Busta Rhymes, and Treach.
2022: Apple's Acquisition of Beats Electronics and Subsequent Reduction in Deal Value
In 2022, it was revealed that Apple had reduced the value of its 2014 acquisition of Beats Electronics by $200 million. The reduction came after entertainer Tyrese Gibson prematurely disclosed the deal on social media a month before its completion without Apple's permission. This acquisition initially made Dr. Dre the "richest man in hip hop."
February 2023: Listening Party for "Casablanco" Album
Dr. Dre and Marsha Ambrosius held a listening party for their collaborative album "Casablanco" in Los Angeles in February 2023.
March 2024: Dr. Dre Reveals Suffering Three Strokes
In March 2024, Dr. Dre disclosed that he experienced three strokes during his 2021 hospitalization for a brain aneurysm, shedding light on the seriousness of his health challenges during that period.